Ergocalciferol

Ergocalciferol is used to increase vitamin D levels in people who are deficient. Calcium supplements may be required during treatment with this medicine.

Ergocalciferol Overview

Reviewed: May 21, 2013

Updated: November 24, 2014

Ergocalciferol is a form of Vitamin D, specifically Vitamin D2, that is a prescription medication used to treat hypoparathyroidism (underactive parathyroid), rickets (softening and weakening of the bones) not responding to other medications, and familial hypophosphatemia (low levels of phosphate). Ergocalciferol belongs to a group of drugs called vitamin D analogs, which work by providing the body necessary levels of vitamin D for those who are deficient in this particular vitamin.

This medication comes in capsule form and liquid forms, and is typically taken once a day, with or without food.

There are no common side effects in taking ergocalciferol reported. Rather, serious side effects may occur if too much of the medication is taken.

Uses of Ergocalciferol

Ergocalciferol is a form of Vitamin D, specifically Vitamin D2, that is a prescription medication used to treat hypoparathyroidism (underactive parathyroid), rickets (softening and weakening of the bones) not responding to other medications, and familial hypophosphatemia (low levels of phosphate).

This medication may be prescribed for other uses. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Ergocalciferol Drug Class

Side Effects of Ergocalciferol

Serious side effects have been reported with ergocalciferol. See “Drug Precautions” section.

There are no common side effects in taking ergocalciferol reported. Rather, serious side effects may occur if too much of the medication is taken. In order to avoid toxicity from ergocalciferol, vitamin D intake from outside sources (e.g., fortified foods or dietary supplements) should be evaluated by your doctor before to determine an appropriate dose.

This is not a complete list of ergocalciferol side effects. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Ergocalciferol Food Interactions

Medicines can interact with certain foods. In some cases, this may be harmful and your doctor may advise you to avoid certain foods. In the case of ergocalciferol, there are no specific foods that you must exclude from your diet when receiving ergocalciferol.

However, inform you doctor of your daily dietary intake, as your doctor may be able to prescribe an appropriate dose of this medication based on your intake of vitamin D. It is important to maintain a steady daily intake of vitamin D.

Ergocalciferol and Pregnancy

The FDA categorizes medications based on safety for use during pregnancy. Five categories - A, B, C, D, and X, are used to classify the possible risks to an unborn baby when a medication is taken during pregnancy.

Ergocalciferol falls into category C. This medication may be given to a pregnant woman if her healthcare provider believes that its benefits to the pregnant woman outweigh any possible risks to her unborn baby.

Ergocalciferol and Lactation

In a mother given large doses of vitamin D, a small amount of vitamin D appeared in the breast milk, which led to excess levels of calcium in her child. Monitoring of the infant's calcium level was required in that case, and may be necessary for other mothers taking ergocalciferol.

Ergocalciferol Usage

Ergocalciferol capsules and liquid solution are to be taken by mouth once a day, with or without food.

If you miss a dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not take two doses of ergocalciferol at the same time.

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